Residents of four Region Seven communities will have an opportunity to help shape local economic development projects as the Small Business Bureau (SBB) begins consultations this week under its Community Development Projects (CDP) programme.

The consultations will explore potential income-generating ventures in hydroponics, shade-house farming, aquaculture and beekeeping, with residents invited to share ideas, identify community needs and express interest in the proposed initiatives.

Under the theme “Your Community, Your Ideas, Your Opportunity,” the programme aims to help residents work together to establish sustainable projects, acquire practical skills and create lasting economic opportunities.

The first consultation will be held at the River’s View Benab in Goshen on October 29 at 1 p.m.

Three additional meetings are scheduled for October 30. Residents of Itaballi will meet at the Itaballi Community Centre Ground at 10 a.m., followed by a consultation at the Greenfield Play Ground in Batavia at 1 p.m.

The final meeting will be held at Two Miles Primary School, serving residents of the 1–4 Miles Potaro Road area, at 4 p.m.

The SBB is encouraging farmers, community groups, aspiring entrepreneurs and other residents to participate in the discussions, which are intended to identify projects suited to local circumstances and interests.

The consultations will provide an opportunity for communities to contribute directly to discussions on potential business ventures and explore ways to turn local ideas into viable economic activities.